Features Econoline Madness Who's got one?

I've always loved this build style...

 

Any Econoline guys still on the HAMB?
I'm working on a '61 window van and looking for parts/info

 

Saw this on book of faces

 

This is mine, 240, 3 on the tree, 9".

 

I picked up this 67 Heavy Duty extended Econoline in late 2017 from it's original owner.
Has a 240/3-speed. Van is complete but sat under a tarp for many years leading to the front roof area & nose being rusted pretty bad. It hasn't run in at least 15 years. I found a 67 window van & cut the entire front off of it. Not sure if I will rebuild it or sell it.

 

Not mine , but........

 

Hello,

When these trucks first came out, the local gardeners and landscaping companies used them as they were smaller than full size pickup trucks, but gave a different ride and viewing. The ride in the front seat was felt as the driver/passenger sat over the front wheels. But the suspension did its best to make it comfortable. It was a new way to build a truck or van.

Our friend had one of the first Econoline vans that he converted to a sales showroom (Frantz Oil Filters) and a surf camper van. The ride was the same, except for the extra weight. Bumps were not to be taken at speed, but it made the driver be extra cautious. But, the Ford Econoline trucks and vans had an advantage over the popular VW vans… they had more power to get to the destination sooner.

Jnaki

During the pandemic, there were plenty of small businesses that had to bite the bullet and take an extended vacation. But, commercial businesses and office buildings still needed some loving care.

The Econoline truck was Innovative, but it was a hard sell in the long run versus the ever popular Ford F100 pickup trucks, then and throughout history to this day (F150-F250 versions).
The current idea from the 1961 surfing years … a lowered rake + custom wire wheels and now a shorter surfboard still fits inside under the roof for more clearance inside. Instead of a tall wind blocking, massive sprinter van taking up a lot of space on the highways and streets, this cool Econoline would have the space and custom look to cruise to the camping sites and beaches for some cool overnight stays. Sure, we cannot stand up like the behemoth, sprinter vans. But, the style far surpasses the tall moving box down the highways.

Note:
Recently, I was in the local coastal city and drove by this industrial shop area. The business was still listed and the parking lot seemed bustling, but the red Econoline pickup truck was missing. Perhaps, it was out and about servicing those countless restaurants and businesses that have indoor “live” hanging plants and large pots in the waiting rooms. YRMV

A custom lower ramp truck version for future motor transport for our Precision Racing Engines company… if only…